Reds Hit Four Home Runs, Win 8-4 Over Mets in Post-Break Opener

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the New York Mets 8-4, powered by four home runs including two by Austin Hays. Nick Lodolo delivered seven strong innings, allowing two early runs but retiring 16 of the next 18 batters and matching his longest start of the season with seven strikeouts. The Reds' offense was boosted by two-run homers from Matt McLain and Tyler Stephenson, while the Mets' starter Sean Manaea struggled after an early home run and was pulled after four innings. Rookie Mets pitcher Alex Carrillo gave up five runs and three homers in just over one inning, contributing to the Mets' depleted bullpen’s struggles. Cincinnati outfielder TJ Friedl tied a major league record by being hit by pitches from three different pitchers in one game. The Reds’ manager Terry Francona highlighted an optional workout that featured an opposite-field home run contest won by Hays, who then hit both his homers to the opposite field in the game.